Theories of Language Development and Cognitive Growth: Bruner and Grice

Nature-Nurture Debate

Discussion on innate vs learned intelligence

Jerome Bruner

Proposed LASS for language development support

LASS

Language Acquisition Support System aiding language learning

Poverty of Stimulus

Chomsky’s theory on insufficient language input

Motherese

Adapted speech style by mothers for children

Caregiver language

Non-gender-specific term for supportive speech

Child Directed Speech (CDS)

Speech tailored to engage young children

Features of caregiver language

Simplified grammar, shorter sentences and higher pitch

Paul Grice

Proposed 4 conversational maxims for effective communication

Grice’s maxims

Quality, quantity, relevance and manner in conversation

Politeness Principle

Leech’s concept emphasising tact and generosity

Cognitive development

Piaget’s theory that understanding preceded language

Sensorimotor Stage

Birth to 2: sensory exploration and babbling

Pre-operational stage

Ages 2-7: egocentric thinking and language use

Concrete operational stage

Ages 7-11: logical reasoning and understanding concepts

Formal operational stage

From age 12: abstract thinking and unlimited language

Lev Vygotsky

Emphasised social interaction in cognitive development

Cultural influence

Vygotsky’s belief in culture shaping cognitive abilities

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

Gap between current ability and potential with support

Scaffolding

Support provided to help a child learn

Egocentric Thinking

Child’s perspective limited to personal experiences

Collaborative dialogues

Interactions that enhance children’s problem solving skills

High rising intonation

Speech pattern common in caregiver language